Neutron field for activation experiments in horizontal channel of training reactor VR-1

•Neutron activation analysis of various samples.•Neutron spectrometry and gamma-spectrometry.•Study of keff for various types of reactor core.

The experimental channels of nuclear reactors often serve for nuclear data measurement and validation. The dosimetry-foils activation technique was employed to measure neutron field parameters in the horizontal radial channel of the training reactor VR-1, and to test the possibility of using the reactor for scientific purposes. The reaction rates, energy spectral indexes, and neutron spectrum at several irradiation positions of the experimental channel were determined. The experimental results show the feasibility of the radial channel for irradiating experiments and open new possibilities for data validation by using this nuclear facility.